Dover, Delaware (September 24, 2014) - Earlier today, Gov. Jack Markell signed a proclamation recognizing the contributions of Hindu Americans to the state of Delaware and designating October as Hindu American Awareness and Appreciation Month. Hindu American Foundation (HAF) representatives and members of the state’s Hindu community were on hand for the signing of the proclamation in the state capitol.

“The Hindu American population in our state represents Delawareans from a rich diversity of ethnic backgrounds who have strengthened our communities in many ways,” said Governor Markell. “They have added to the overall economic and cultural vitality of the state and country whether it’s through their art, dance, and literature or their successes in business, medicine, science, or their community service. I’m proud to recognize their tremendous contributions by proclaiming Hindu American Awareness and Appreciation Month in Delaware.”

The signing of the proclamation by Markell, a longtime supporter of diversity, marks an important point in the growth of the state’s Hindu community. According to a survey conducted by the Association of Statisticians of American Religious Bodies, Hinduism is the second-largest religion in Delaware. The population is heavily concentrated in New Castle County, the most populous of the state’s three counties where cities such as Wilmington and Newark are located. The Hindu Temple of Delaware is located just outside of Wilmington.

“I think this shows that the governor recognizes just how much of an impact Hinduism and Hindu Delawareans have made on the state,” said Balaji, a former reporter for the Wilmington (DE) News Journal. “It’s a great day for pluralism in the First State.”